VAHETUSTEGA TÖÖGA KAASNEDA VÕIVAD TERVISEPROBLEEMID
Possible health problems associated with shift work
Kristi Vahur, Mai Treial, Alli Alas, Kairi Kiho
Abstract Shift work is common in society, occurring most often in various fields of work such as customer services, health care and industry. As the manufacturing and services are increasing and becoming more and more available, it will inevitably increase the number of shift-work employees. Depending on the work, the work schedule and the nature of human organism it affects the health of shift workers. The purpose of this research study was to clarify shift work employees’ opinions regarding health effects. To achieve the purpose potential and experienced health problems of shift work were identified, comparing these health issues on the basis of the duration of working experience and the work schedules. A questionnaire survey was carried out online (connect.ee) in order to involve as many shift-working people as possible. The target group was reached by sharing the questionnaire on social network (Facebook). The sample consisted of all shift-working adults who were willing to fill out the questionnaire. A total of 610 shift workers were included in the study. It was found that 77.4% of the respondents believe that shift work can affect health and the majority of them mentioned the potential health problems like trouble falling asleep, intermittent sleep, headaches, mood swings and depression. Furthermore, the relationship between the duration of service and health problems was studied. It was found that the longer the person has had shift work, the greater the
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